Can You Build a Wood Frame House in Florida?
As with many questions about Florida, the answer depends on the specific location. Florida spans about 400 miles from north to south, which means building codes and local preferences can vary significantly across the state. However, the short answer is yes—you can certainly build a wood frame house in Florida. This article will explore the challenges and benefits of building a wood frame house in the Sunshine State.
The Building Code: A Permissive Environment
The Florida Building Code (FBC) allows for the construction of wood frame houses. This means that if you have a solid engineered plan detailing how the structure will be built, you can proceed with building your home. However, it's important to note that despite the allowance, many factors come into play when deciding whether a wood frame house is the best choice for your Florida home.
Retail Value and Resistance to Termite Damage
While you can certainly build a wood frame house, the resale value and long-term durability are two factors to consider. In many areas, wood frame houses may have a lower resale value compared to concrete block homes. Additionally, wood-framed houses can be more susceptible to termite damage, which is a significant concern in Florida's warm, humid climate.
Permit Requirements
Building a wood frame house in Florida requires a permit from the local building department. To obtain this permit, you must submit an engineered plan that includes detailed information about how the frame will be constructed, how the walls and trusses will be secured, and how the structure is designed to withstand wind forces specific to your location. This process helps ensure that your home meets the necessary safety standards and local building codes.
North Florida and the Panhandle: Predominantly Wood Frame Construction
In the northern part of Florida, including the Panhandle region, wood frame construction is the most common type of building. This is partly due to the favorable engineering data that supports such structures. The predominantly flat terrain and milder climate in this area make wood frame construction a practical choice.
Northern vs. Southern Florida: CMU vs. Wood Frame
While wood frame construction is prevalent in the northern parts of Florida, the central and southern regions tend to prefer concrete block construction (referred to as CMU). CMU construction is more common in these areas due to several factors, including a heightened perception of hurricane resistance and termite resistance.
Perception of Hurricane Resistance and Termite Resistance
Residents in Central and South Florida are more likely to opt for CMU construction, partly because of a higher perception of hurricane resistance. However, it's important to note that CMU homes can also be damaged by hurricanes and are not inherently more resistant to storm damage compared to wood frame houses. The termite resistance is also a consideration, as wood frame houses can succumb to termite damage more easily.
Conclusion
In conclusion, although it is possible to build a wood frame house in Florida, the decision-making process should carefully weigh the pros and cons. While wood frame construction is permitted and may be viable in certain northern parts of the state, the central and southern regions often lean towards CMU construction due to perceived benefits in terms of hurricane and termite resistance. Understanding the local building codes and weighing the practicalities of each construction method is crucial for making an informed decision.